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Best Italian Restaurants in Essex, Connecticut

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95 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of La Marea restaurant
1. La Marea
4.7
Exceptional(1963)
€€€€
• Italian • Old Saybrook
Booked 27 times today
Savor the authentic tastes of Italy when you dine at La Marea. Located on the shoreline of CT in Old Saybrook, our family owned Italian restaurant prepares northern and southern Italian cuisine using a mix of the finest imports from Italy as well as fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Gluten Free and Vegetarian options are available. Enjoy your dining experience in either our dining room or be sure to reserve a seat at our conversational hi-top tables or at the bar in our lounge.Important: when making a reservation through OpenTable there is an option to make a reservation at a high top table in the bar area or standard table which is in the dining room. If the high top option does not pop up as an option for you then that means that there are NO High Top tables available at those times. If you would like to reserve bar seats please leave us a note or call us. See you soon! Take-out available
A photo of Luigi's Restaurant - Old Saybrook restaurant
2. Luigi's Restaurant - Old Saybrook
4.9
Exceptional(227)
€€€€
• Italian • Old Saybrook
Booked 9 times today
Luigi's Restaurant in Old Saybrook is a standout destination for authentic American cuisine, offering not only a warm, family-friendly atmosphere but also an impressive menu that delights every diner. The New York Strip is frequently praised as "cooked perfectly," and their prime rib is described as "delicious," showcasing their commitment to quality. Guests rave about the attentive service, with many noting how the staff makes them feel "right at home." Luigi's is celebrated as a "wonderful gem" for both casual dining and special occasions, making it a go-to spot for those seeking classic American flavors in a charming setting.
A photo of Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge restaurant
3. Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge
4.1
Excellent(1041)
€€€€
• Italian • Westbrook
Booked 14 times today
Nestled on the picturesque grounds of the Water’s Edge Resort and Spa in Westbrook, Dattilo Fine Italian offers an authentic Mediterranean culinary journey that transports diners straight to the sun-drenched coasts of Italy. Guests rave about the "wonderful food and service" paired with "breathtaking views" of the ocean, making it a perfect spot for any occasion. The rich and authentic menu is complemented by an extensive global wine list, enhancing the vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Whether enjoying their renowned Sunday brunch or indulging in nightly specials, Dattilo Fine Italian promises a "spectacular" dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.
A photo of Rustica Ristorante - Chester restaurant
4. Rustica Ristorante - Chester
4.7
Exceptional(1418)
€€€€
• Italian • Chester
Booked 12 times today
Authentic Italian Food!!!UNDER THE STATE LAW DUE TO COVID-19, RUSTICA RISTORANTE HAS IMPLEMENTED HEALTHY AND SAFE PRECAUTIONS FOR OUR EMPLOYEES AND CUSTOMERS. OUR OUTDOOR SEATING ALLOWS YOU TO INTERACT WITH EACH OTHER SAFELY
A photo of The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun restaurant
5. The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun
4.7
Exceptional(10274)
€€€€
• Italian • Uncasville
Booked 129 times today
Located inside Casino of the Earth at Mohegan Sun, The Farm Italy Restaurant & Bar delivers one of Connecticut’s most dramatic Italian dining experiences. Recently nominated for Best Italian Restaurant in Connecticut, The Farm Italy is known for its grand ceilings, stunning lighting fixtures, beautiful architecture, handcrafted Italian cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere inspired by the warmth of the Italian countryside. Guests visit for upscale dinners, cocktails before concerts and events, celebrations, date nights, and business dinners. The menu features freshe pasta, premium steaks, seafood, seasonal dishes, and an extensive wine and cocktail program. With warm hospitality and unforgettable ambiance, The Farm Italy has quickly become a premier dining destination at Mohegan Sun.
A photo of Tuscany - Mohegan Sun restaurant
6. Tuscany - Mohegan Sun
4.5
Awesome(6110)
€€€€
• Italian • Uncasville
Booked 110 times today
Tuscany - Mohegan Sun delivers an unparalleled breakfast experience that is both authentic and indulgent. Nestled in the picturesque setting of Uncasville, the restaurant's Bottomless Brunch is a weekend highlight, drawing rave reviews for its "freshly made to order omelets" and "delicious eggs benedict with a creamy light sauce." The brunch menu delights with a variety of offerings, from French toast adorned with "various sauces and fruits" to a "signature sausage not to be overlooked." Guests are consistently impressed with the "wonderful waitstaff" who ensure each dining experience is memorable. Tuscany is a must-visit for breakfast lovers seeking quality and authenticity.
A photo of La Foresta Restaurant restaurant
7. La Foresta Restaurant
4.2
Awesome(39)
€€€€
• Italian • Killingworth
Booked 1 time today
In July of 2014, following over 20 years of restaurant experience in Italy, New York City and New Haven, Killingworth resident and entrepreneur Francesco Lulaj opened the doors to his biggest wine and food dream yet. Welcome to La Foresta Restaurant & Wine Bar! ABUNDANT WINE SELECTIONS With a spactacular menu, and wine list boasting over 1,600 selections, and more than 10,000 total bottles, Francesco and staff take great pride in serving you and your family. FRESH INGREDIENTS When available, the Chefs will use local Connecticut fresh ingredients and homegrown herbs. We gladly accommodate children’s meals, allergy concerns, and other special requests; please ask your server for suggestions.
A photo of Dopo la Spiaggia - Sag Harbor restaurant
8. Dopo la Spiaggia - Sag Harbor
4.6
Exceptional(330)
€€€€
• Italian • Sag Harbor
Booked 46 times today
Dopo la Spiaggia - Sag Harbor offers an exquisite Bar and Lounge experience that stands out as a true gem in the vibrant Sag Harbor area. The charming, airy bar area is a local favorite, praised for its "superb crafted cocktails" that complement the serene views of the marina. Diners rave about the "amazing service" and the chic, cozy atmosphere that makes each visit memorable. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening by the fireplace or sipping cocktails on the outdoor patio, the ambiance is "always consistent" and inviting. For an authentic and delightful escape, Dopo la Spiaggia is "not to be missed!"
A photo of Radici at The Stand | Branford restaurant
9. Radici at The Stand | Branford
3.9
Excellent(69)
€€€€
• Italian • Branford
Booked 40 times today
At Radici, we believe life’s best moments happen around the table. Located on South Montowese Street in Branford, we blend refined Italian tradition with a warm coastal vibe to create a space that is both elevated and effortlessly welcoming.Our menu features eclectic Italian-American soul food, from handmade pastas and pizzas to thoughtfully crafted cocktails. Whether you’re joining us for an intimate dinner or a lively evening with friends, every detail at Radici is designed to bring people together. Join us for a convivial experience rooted in genuine hospitality.
A photo of The Chequit Restaurant restaurant
10. The Chequit Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(35)
€€€€
• Italian • Shelter Island
Booked 11 times today
The Chequit Restaurant + Bar brings warm, approachable Italian dining to one of Shelter Island’s most iconic hotel destinations.Set inside The Chequit, the restaurant is intimate, coastal, and quietly seductive — a place for golden-hour cocktails, handmade Italian flavors, candlelit dinners, and long island evenings that feel effortless. As Shelter Island’s only Italian restaurant, and Shelter Island's only stand up bar, The Chequit offers a dining experience that is refined without feeling formal, stylish without trying too hard, and rooted in the kind of hospitality that makes guests want to stay a little longer.Join us for coastal Italian dishes, crafted cocktails, thoughtful wines, and the timeless charm of The Chequit Hotel.Bar open daily from 4 PM–10 PM. Dinner reservations available from 5:30 PM–8:30 PM. Kitchen closes at 9 PM.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Virginia
    New York City •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Service, food and atmosphere were outstanding. Thank you for a great experience.
    More info
    Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge$$$$• Steakhouse• Westbrook
    •
    4.1
  • Dana
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Beautiful restaurant. You forgot that you were in Mohegan completely. The staff was extremely attentive and the food was delicious.
    More info
    The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun$$$$• Italian• Uncasville
    •
    4.7
  • JoanneGold
    New York City •98 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Wow! Just wow! We had the best time, the best food, and the best server. We tried Luigi’s based on a recommendation from a local woman who said it was the best Italian restaurant in the area. . . She wasn’t wrong. We’re New York Italians and the food here was just like Nonna’s. Started with garlic bread, fried artichokes hearts, Luigi’s salad, eggplant rollatini, stuffed shrimp, mint chocolate chip pie, and affogato. A few glasses of vino and boy, what a meal! Kudos to the DiBella family! When we visit Old Saybrook again, we’ll definitely be back. 🍷🍷🍷
    More info
    Luigi's Restaurant - Old Saybrook$$$$• Italian• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.9
  • LucilleGold
    New York City •46 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 29 Jul 2026
    Fabulous as always. The best Aperol spritz! Compliments to the bartender The seafood risotto was off the hook!! Fried zucchini blossoms!! Awesome. The grilled vegetables with white bean purée. Bellisima! My friend had the chicken Milanese which looked and tasted amazing. My husband had the grilled pork chop. Nothing left on his plate except the bone! Thank you Karen and Francesca for being so fabulous. Nino and Juliana wonderful hosts Don’t miss LaMarea!
    More info
    La Marea$$$$• Italian• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.7
  • cheryl
    New York City •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 28 Jul 2026
    Dining a Pleasure Everyone of our 7 dinners was outstanding! My guests Loved their dining experience. Halibut special was a rave! Gnocchi was delicious as was the carbonara special!! As always … thank you !!❤️
    More info
    Rustica Ristorante - Chester$$$$• Italian• Chester
    •
    4.7

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